Lyle Toso

Buckley resident Lyle Dennis Toso died May 7, 2018, at the age of 82. He had been battling cancer and heart disease for more than two years.

He was born Nov. 25, 1935, in Pelican Rapids, Minnesota, the youngest of Anton and Alma Toso’s 10 children. After returning from his service in the Army, he married Ardell Halbakken in 1959. He had a nearly 30 year career with Baugh Construction, working in Washington and Alaska, then sold and brokered construction equipment until he retired. After retirement he spent time restoring antique tractors until he found his true passion of helping others. He loved volunteering at church and Gateway Medical Alliance where he was known as the king of fork lift drivers. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and weekends away with the entire family.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Ardell; children Ricky Toso (Jennifer), Linda Haskin (Rob), Lonny Toso (Esther), and Kristen Easter (Darryl); six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will begin at 2 p.m. Sunday, May 20, at Faith Church in Kent, with a reception to follow.

A memorial fund has been established at Gateway Medical Alliance called “Lyle’s Project.” Gateway has shipped 97 containers of unused medical supplies to 11 poor or disadvantaged countries around the world. “Lyle’s Project” purchases children’s Bibles to be included with the shipments. Donations may be made to GMA at P.O. Box 1335, Kent, Washington 98035-1355 or online at www.gatewayma.org/donate-now. Specify “Lyle’s Project” on any donations.